Chef Tour Squisito at Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar
Fun and generous fare captures everything people love about the Italian’s approach to food and country, effuses Helen Flanagan.
Delicious, unashamedly exceptional modern Italian with roots firmly placed in the classics, the menu at Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar is a love letter to regional Italian dishes, backed up by a thoughtful compilation of wines and aperitivo. Fresh, seasonal and produce-driven, sourcing the finest ingredients and letting them speak for themselves, finessed service, and gleaming water views do the rest. In fact, a visit to the Noosa Waterfront is like taking an indulgent Mediterranean holiday with chef and restaurateur Andrea Ravezzani!
Nothing about Andrea is predictable. He offers an experience that would rank highly on the Tuscan Coast – not surprising, given he was born in Milan, and for 10 years has infused his craft with local seaside pizzazz. Sure, it’s easy to sing loud praises for the lashings of kissed-by-the-sun produce, just-caught Reef Fish; Bistecca alla Florentina; Duck Breast with Foie Gras Mousse; and ever-inspiring pasta dishes from Pumpkin Tortelli; Spanner Crab Tortellini; and Spaghetti with North Queensland Lobster.
When it comes to decadence however, absolutely nothing compares to Andrea’s latest. Those who have salivated over the degustation menu will be familiar with delectables such as Oscietra Royal Caviar; Fritto Misto All’ Italiana; Cacciucco, a classic seafood medley; and to finish. Tiramisu. These dishes and so many more share their Tuscan origins with Andrea, who will be hosting a group of just 10 to his home and heartland where guests will appreciate first hand la dolce vita.
With a background in Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotel brands, Andrea’s list of personal connections across Italy’s food and wine world is extraordinary, with exclusive access to many places not available to the public. Expect the unexpected on Andrea’s week-long Gastronomic Odyssey to Italy in July and September this year where you can indulge in world-class cuisine and see and savour Italy through Andrea’s eyes as you uncover hidden gems, and meet the artisans, winemakers and chefs who define culinary excellence – and so much more.
Andrea is the Australian brand ambassador for the prestigious Italian winery Ferrari Trento.
“It’s steeped in history with a reputation for crafting world-class sparkling wines, it is also the official wine of Formula 1,” explains Andrea.
“And hotel-wise, I have special bonds with several such as the owner of the magnificent Grand Hotel Fasan on beautiful Lake Garda after his son, Mayer, visited Noosa Waterfront.
“Every dish tells a story, and every connection adds another layer to the rich tapestry of Italian gastronomy and culture.
“Such is the case with Michelin-starred chef Carlo Cracco, my mentor and legend of Italian cuisine and television personality, who will host the grand finale dinner at his Ristorante Cracco, listed in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.”
Expect the unexpected – of course! Amongst the many highlights experience the art of Parmigiano Reggiano production in Modena, savour aged balsamic vinegar, and taste exquisite Prosciutto di Parma – before lunch!
Then onto the Maranello Museum to admire the legacy of Enzo Ferrari, and his uber luxury Ferrari Spa founded in 1939. Lunch follows with a menu designed by Massimo Bottura whose restaurant Osteria Francescana, in the historic centre of Modena, has earned three Michelin stars and was ranked twice with first place in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
In Milan at I Carracci Ristorante in the Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni maximus enjoyment is guaranteed with a nine-course tasting menu and wine pairing, and at Cassolnovo Caviar a total indulgence awaits with Andrea’s friend Jon, the owner of Ars Italica Oscietra Caviar, who will divulge the secrets of Italy’s rich caviar tradition.
Feel satiated? Need more food for thought? There are several degustation menus to choose from right here in Noosa at Noosa Waterfront with exotic traditions such Beluga and Oscietra Royal caviars and Tuscan-inspired dishes from Andrea’s homeland.
Always save room for dolce, especially Andrea’s take on Nonna’s tiramisu, which has been elevated by Venezuelan chocolate and coffee ice cream.
It’s bellissimo and the perfect excuse to linger longer and enjoy a dessert wine, while you ask chef for more details on his Gastronomic Odyssey tour of Italy.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Indulge in La Dolce Vita with an Italian feast at Noosa Waterfront:
Signature Seafood Degustation: 6-course tasting menu. $99 per person; add matching wines for $99
Signature Degustation: 6-course degustation. $139 per person; add matching wines for $99 or $129 for premium matching wines.
Lunch Special: includes a glass of wine. $39 for one course, choice of one main; $59 for two courses, choice of entrée and main or main and dessert; $69 for three courses; choice of entrée, main and dessert.
Italian Long Lunch: Last Sunday of each month, $79 per person. Inspired by families in Italy who get together to enjoy warm conversation, good wine, and beautifully prepared food. Visit www.noosawaterfrontrestaurant.com.au for bookings and menus.
DON’T MISS: Andrea Ravezzani’s Gastronomic Odyssey: 16-23 July and 10-17 September. 5-star tour of Northern Italy – 8 Days, 3 Cities, 10 Guests only.
Experience a personalised tour of Andrea’s favourite destinations, exclusive encounters and memorable moments. Reservations & Enquiries: Contact the friendly team at Traveloso on 1300 747 100 or email hello@traveloso.com.au
